Wow!  There are some corkers here aren’t there?  Leaving aside the three obviously naff ones, step forward St. Winifred’s, Renne & Renato and Cliff Richard, the rest are solid gold, top tunes.  From the greatest 80’s number 1 single, Don’t You Want Me, to the Pet Shop Boys cover of the Elvis classic, You Were Always On My Mind, they all resonate.  The dross that is served up nowadays by Simon Cowell and his ilk just wouldn’t stand a chance.  Even the best Christmas number 1 of recent times, 2003’s Mad World by Michael Andrews featuring Gary Jules, is a cover of an eighties hit by Tears For Fears.  I rest my case.

1980 – There’s No One Quite Like Grandma – St. Winifred’s School Choir

1981 – Don’t You Want Me – Human League

1982 – Save Your Love – Renee and Renato

1983 – Only You – Flying Pickets

1984 – Do They Know It’s Christmas? – Band Aid

1985 – Merry Christmas Everyone – Shakin’ Stevens

1986 – Reet Petite – Jackie Wilson

1987 – Always on My Mind – Pet Shop Boys

1988 – Mistletoe and Wine – Cliff Richard

1989 – Do They Know It’s Christmas? – Band Aid II